Synopsis
by Hal Erickson

Released in Italy in 1950, Volcano didn't receive widespread American distribution until it was picked up by United Artists in 1953. The film is a standard "smoldering passions" yarn, with the ubiquitous Anna Magnani in the lead. In accordance with postwar Italian law, prostitute Maddelena Natoli (Magnani) is sentenced to spend the rest of her life in disgrace in her hometown. Returning to the island of Vulcano, Maddelena tries to connect with her younger sister (Geraldine Brooks) and brother (Enzo Stajola), who greet her with hostility. Her only solace is the love of deep-sea diver Donato (Rosanno Brazzi), whose own past is as checkered as Maddelena's. The story is resolved by Mother Nature herself, during a spectacular volcanic eruption.